Olympics coverage threatened as angry BBC staff go on work to rule...in China

Friday 25 July 2008 12:53 BST

The BBC's radio coverage of the Olympics is under threat as angry staff have decided to take industrial action while in China.

Coverage of the biggest event in the sporting calendar could be dropped from the airwaves in a row over pay and conditions.

Radio engineers, many of who are already in Beijing, will take the action from next Thursday over the long-standing dispute.

Under threat: Radio Five Live Olympics coverage by presenters Mark Pougatch (left) and John Inverdale may not go ahead due to strikes

It threatens to derail planned coverage of the Olympics line-up most notably on BBC radio stations Five Live and Radio 4.

The intensely demanding workload required to cover the event means the broadcaster is said to rely on the goodwill of staff.

But with workers only prepared to work to the minimum contracted hours they are obliged to, there are fears many events will be left uncovered.

Olympic hopeful: Heptathlete Kelly Sotherton is tipped for a gold medal at Beijing, but it may not be covered on BBC radio stations

Olympic hopeful: Heptathlete Kelly Sotherton is tipped for a gold medal at Beijing, but it may not be covered on BBC radio stations

Broadcasting union BECTU served the BBC with formal notice of continuous industrial action on Thursday.

It said: 'The BBC has failed to act on its promises to resolve long-held grievances.'

The specialist team of radio engineers work on key events resourced from London.

Almost half of the 23-strong group are currently on assignment in Beijing and will be covered by the industrial action mandate.

Of the staff affected, 78% voted in favour of strike action.

The action means shifts over 12 hours long will stop and staff will insist on an 11 hour break between turns of duty.

Staff will also refuse to work more than 6 days out of 7 and hours in excess of 160 in a four week period will be refused.

Staff are seeking an agreement with the BBC which will reward staff, in terms of both pay and grading, whether they are at an early stage in their careers, experienced or more senior members of the team.

If the dispute is not resolved soon, the action could also impact on the BBC’s coverage of the remaining summer festivals, the BBC Proms, Test Cricket and the Ryder Cup.

A BECTU spokesperson said: 'The dispute arises because this skilled group of staff have seen their responsibilities and workload increase without pay and regrading to deliver the reward and recognition which they deserve.

'Staff have been patient for a long time now and the BBC has failed to act on its promises to resolve long-held grievances.

'It is hoped that these latest developments will lead to a commitment by management to deliver a long-lasting solution to our members concerns.'